Papa John’s Names Initiative Its New Media Agency

Papa John'sPapa John’s has selected Initiative as its new media agency, taking over for Zimmerman Advertising without a review. In addition to media buying and planning, the agency will also be tasked handling digital and social media efforts, Adweek reports. Papa John’s spends approximately $130 million annually on measured media.

Bob Kraut, who was named Papa John’s chief marketing officer in late 2013, worked with Initiative previously while serving as senior vice president of brand marketing and advertising at Arby’s Restaurant Group. The move follows the selection of Grey as the brand’s creative agency of record in early 2014, shortly following Kraut’s arrival. Zimmerman had previously held creative duties for the brand as well, but declined to defend in the review that led to Grey’s selection.

“This was an internal decision as part of Papa John’s ongoing effort to be a more global company and improve efficiencies,” the Louisville-based brand said in a statement. “We feel like Initiative is the right partner as we continue to move in this direction.”

 

Grey Takes Over Papa John’s Biz

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Well, the official word trickled into the inbox a bit late on this, but nonetheless, in case you haven’t heard, Grey has taken over as national AOR for Papa John’s (will this affect his Peyton Manning bonding sessions? Only time will tell). From what we’ve been told, Grey beat out Arnold, BBDO and Doner for the pizza chain’s biz , which calls for a refresh of TV creative as well as integration of digital advertising and social media. Approximately 20 agencies in all participated in the initial RFP process, which kicked off last November. Grey takes over on Papa John’s biz for Ft. Lauderdale-based, Omnicom-owned Zimmerman, which chose not to defend.

In a statement, Papa John’s CMO Bob Kraut says, ” Everyone was impressed with the Grey team and their in-depth understanding of our brand and the QSR pizza category. Grey provided keen insights and strategy, which, combined with excellent creative, will help take the Papa John’s brand to the next level. We’re looking forward to working closely with them and welcome them to the Papa John’s team.”

Papa John’s spending is valued at $120 million.

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